The POT has awarded to SpaceXproperty of Elon Muska contract of up to $843 million to develop and build a spacecraft known as the “US Deorbit Vehicle.”
This aircraft will be crucial for the safe withdrawal of the International Space Station towards its final destination in the Pacific Ocean. This is due to its planned decommissioning in 2030.
The announcement made by the space agency American highlights that this decision will facilitate a safe transition of the EEI in low Earth orbit at the end of its useful life.
Even so, NASA will supervise all operations of the ship
Once built by SpaceXthe POT will assume ownership of the ship and oversee all operations during its mission.
The ISSWeighing 430,000 kilograms, it is the largest structure ever built in space and has been continuously inhabited by an international crew since 2001.
Following its planned three-stage disintegration during atmospheric reentry, significant portions are expected to fall into a remote region of the Pacific Ocean known as Point Nemo.
This area is commonly known as the “graveyard” of satellites and spacecraft due to its isolated location.
Although the ISS It is scheduled to operate until 2030 with the commitment of countries such as the United States, Japan, Canada and the European Space Agency, Russia’s participation is limited until 2028.
Meanwhile, several companies, including Axiom Space and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin, are developing commercial successors to the ISS.
This contract with SpaceX It underscores the crucial role of the private sector in space exploration and the sustainability of outer space operations as humanity moves toward future missions and projects.
Also read:
PlayStation Plus features exciting free games for July
Heartbreak High celebrates LGBTQIA+ diversity
